What term describes restriction of the ability to perform in a competent manner, occurring at the level of the whole person?

• A. Disability
• B. Functional Limitation
• C. Impairment
• D. Handicap

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is distinguishing levels of how health problems affect functioning. A functional limitation describes a restriction in performing tasks or actions at the level of the whole person—the ability to carry out activities in a competent manner. It focuses on what the person can or cannot do in daily life, not on the underlying organ or tissue problem.

This differs from impairment, which is an issue with body structures or functions themselves (the biological or physiological problem). Disability refers to difficulties in performing activities or participating in life roles, often considering broader activity or social participation. Handicap describes a disadvantage that results from barriers in the environment or social context.

So, when the emphasis is on the restriction of performing tasks at the person level, the term that fits best is functional limitation.